Amniocentesis

Amniocentesis (am-nee-o-sen-tee-sis) is a pre-natal outpatient diagnostic test that is used to determine the possible presence of birth defects. It is usually performed between the sixteenth and twentieth week of pregnancy.

Your doctor may suggest an amniocentesis test if you are 35 years or older, have had a previous child with birth defects, have a family history of genetic disorders, are scheduled for a Cesarean birth, or are expected to have premature labor. Tests on the amniotic fluid and cells in the fluid can detect birth defects such as Down syndrome, spina (spine-a) bifida (biff-a- da), some forms of muscular dystrophy, and some brain and blood disorders.

During the procedure, the doctor determines the position of the baby by using an ultrasound. A local anesthetic is used to numb the skin. A needle attached to a syringe is then inserted through the abdomen into the amniotic sac to withdraw about one ounce of fluid. The fluid is analyzed to determine if there are any possible defects.

The professionals at Southwest Contemporary Women's Care are prepared to care for or refer (when needed) all individuals, regardless of race, religion, genetics, sexual preference, or gender identity. Our care providers have eliminated barriers for all patients to access care. We have taken steps to identify the sexual orientation and gender identity of all patients as a routine part of the clinical encounter to allow patients to express their personal preferences. This also allows us to better serve the individual needs of each patient. We follow the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommendation that health care professionals foster nondiscriminatory practices and policies to increase identification and to facilitate quality health care for all individuals. This includes providing care for their needs within our scope of practice, as well as referring to appropriate professionals when needed to allow excellence in all their health care needs.